Clarence House Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2023

Nestled in the foothills of the Meehan Ranges, halfway between Hobart and the Coal Valley, lies the picturesque Clarence House Estate vineyard. Planted in 1998, this vineyard boasts an ideal location and soil composition, making it a haven for grape cultivation. Stretching across 16 hectares of land, the vineyard initially began with just 6 hectares of vine plantings. The first vines included chardonnay, pinot noir, sauvignon blanc, tempranillo, merlot and cabernet sauvignon. As time went on, the estate expanded, adding more pinot noir, chardonnay and even pinot blanc to its offerings. The decision to plant pinot blanc was made after consulting with former winemaker Andrew Hood, who recognized the similarities between the local conditions and those found in Oregon, where pinot blanc thrives. The vineyard's fruit was initially sold until the vines reached maturity. In 2006, the Clarence House label was established, allowing the estate to showcase its own wines. The vineyard now produces three labels: Clarence Plains, available exclusively in Tasmania, Clarence House Estate and Clarence House Reserve. The Reserve wines are a selection of the best barrels from each vintage, often undergoing extended oak maturation to enhance their complexity and depth. Leading the winemaking at Clarence House Estate are Justin Bubb and Anna Pooley of Pooley Wines in Cambridge. With their vast experience and gentle approach, they bring an old-world philosophy to the winemaking process, focusing on elegance and balance.

The Clarence House vineyard benefits from its location on a moderately sloping, rolling hill with a favourable north-eastern aspect. This position allows the vines to bask in the early morning sun while avoiding the harsh impact of late afternoon heat. The vineyard is home to seven grape varieties: pinot noir, chardonnay, sauvignon blanc, pinot blanc, tempranillo, merlot, and cabernet sauvignon. Notably, all of these varieties are planted on their original roots, further adding to the unique character of the wines produced. With its stunning location, diverse grape varieties, and meticulous winemaking, Clarence House Estate offers a true expression of Tasmania's viticultural potential. The wines produced here are a testament to the dedication and passion of those involved, resulting in elegant and balanced wines that showcase the best of this remarkable vineyard.

Clarence House Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2023 is a wine that showcases the meticulous craftsmanship and dedication to quality winemaking. This reserve bottling is the result of a selection of the finest barrels, where whole bunches were pressed and underwent wild barrel fermentation. After six months of élevage, the wine has matured gracefully. On the nose, this Chardonnay offers a wonderfully complex bouquet. Citrus notes dance alongside peach stone fruit, creating a harmonious blend of aromas. The judicious use of oak is evident, adding depth and character to the wine without overpowering its delicate nuances. Robust and concentrated on the palate, this Chardonnay showcases its full-bodied nature. However, it remains fresh and vibrant, thanks to its impeccable structure. The wine strikes a perfect balance between richness and freshness, demonstrating the winemaker's skill in achieving harmony. Clarence House Estate Reserve Chardonnay 2023 is a wine that possesses great aging potential. Its concentration and structure suggest that it will evolve gracefully over time, allowing its flavors and complexities to further develop. However, this wine is equally enjoyable in its youth, offering a fresh and unbridled expression that pairs wonderfully with appropriate cuisine. This reserve Chardonnay embodies the essence of Clarence House Estate's commitment to producing exceptional wines. Its complexity, balance and judicious use of oak make it a standout wine that is sure to impress. Whether enjoyed now or aged, this Chardonnay promises a remarkable tasting experience that showcases the unique character of the vineyard.

The Finer Details
Style - White Wine
Varietal - Chardonnay
Country - Australia
Region - Tasmania
Vintage - 2023
Bottle Size - 750ml
ABV - 13.2%